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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can run fast in a game and can explain why running into space is important.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: to avoid defenders you should run fast, pump your arms and use the ball parts of your feet, into an open space.
      2. Move: changing direction when running will help avoid being tagged by the defenders.
      3. Think: effectively choosing which space to run into will reduce likelihood of being tagged by the defenders.
      4. Connect: playing by the rules demonstrates fairness and empathy to others.
      5. Feel: stopping when tagged shows a commitment to trying hard.

      Keywords

      • Space - an open area where it is safe and there are no defenders

      • Defenders - individuals who are trying to stop the attackers from scoring by tagging them

      • Running - the activity of moving fast using our feet

      Common misconception

      Pupils will forget to use their arms and/or focus forwards when running into spaces. Pupils will run out of the area to avoid being tagged.

      Explain and demonstrate running into space staying within the area. Explain the consequences of running off the court or pitch in a game. Model the correct technique for running and explain why it is important.

      Teacher tip

      Use lots of demonstrations to support understanding and create 3 smaller groups rather than one big class group.

      Equipment

      bibs, 30+ cones, 30+ floor markers, 30+ beanbags

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What word signals the start of a race?

      Wait
      Correct answer: Go
      Stop

      Q2.
      What should we do with our head if we want to run fast?

      Correct answer: focus forwards
      look up
      look down

      Q3.
      What part of our feet should we use to run fast?

      heels
      toes
      Correct answer: ball parts

      Q4.
      What do you do with your arms to enable you to run fast?

      Correct answer: pump
      wave
      hold still

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What do we call the person who is trying to stop the attacker from scoring?

      Correct Answer: defender

      Q2.
      What are the defenders trying to do in a ball game?

      score a goal
      Correct answer: take the ball
      run into space

      Q3.
      Which activity has defenders in?

      dance
      Correct answer: basketball
      gymnastics

      Q4.
      What are we following if we show fairness in the game?

      the players
      the defenders
      Correct answer: the rules

      To help you plan your 1 physical education lesson on: Running in a game, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...